All-time combined Argentina-Brazil XI

#6 Left midfielder: Alfredo Di Stefano

Alfredo Di Stefano (centre) played for 3 countries Argentina, Colombia and Spain

Some people might take umbridge with the fact Alfredo Di Stefano is being selected as an Argentine footballer, but it’s worth remembering that he was born in Buenos Aires, despite representing Spain and, for a time, Colombia. Selected as a left midfielder here, his versatility enabled him to roam the pitch to play virtually anywhere with equal amounts of class and brilliance.

Not only this but the Real Madrid legend lined out for Argentina on six occasions. The majority of his international caps came for Spain as he picked up 23 there after becoming naturalised, but his Argentine roots remain a huge part of his legacy.

Indeed, his four years with River Plate were a genuine success prior to his eventual move to Europe as he won two national league titles with them. Along with this, he played a pivotal role in Argentina’s 1947 Copa America victory (called the South American Championship at the time) as he recorded six goals in six matches after injuries to a number of key players saw him rise up the ranks from a reserve squad member to one of the stars of the team.

Of course, it was with Los Blancos that the “Blonde Arrow” enjoyed his most successful spell as he won an unrivalled five European Cups on the trot, one continental Cup, eight La Liga titles and was a two-time winner of the European Player of the Year gong.